Sept 2016 Spotlight by Spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

Blue Valley West High School, 16200 Antioch Rd., Overland Park, Kan.

Volume 16, Issue 1 Sept. 21, 2016

Stand Out <

pg. 8 Debate National Champs pg. 10 Tennis Golden Connection pg. 14 Officer Nealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perspective pg. 18 Extra-Ordinary People

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contents September

Photo by Ryan Barrett

Repertory theater performs the play Ordinary People Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. The drama explores themes of suicide, death, family dysfunction and recovery.

Pg.18 On the cover

Photo by Mikaela Schmitt

Senior Drew Anderson blasts through the cheerleaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s banner to start the football season against BV Southwest on Thurs., Sept. 1. The Jags won 20-17. Anderson and others helped our staff focus on students and events that STAND OUT. Photo by Drew Lazzo

Photo by Ryan Barrett

Unusual Pets

Dogs, cats and hamsters â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; students have become passe; now have farm animals and animals normally found in zoos as family pets.

Photo by Paige Ennis

more stories at BVWNews.com Contents 3

Photo by Kaitlin Comstock

Fall Sports Briefs

Pg. 24

Many fall athletes have been preparing since the early parts of the summer. Their dedication is paying off with wins, skill development and personal bests. New coaches are now settling in and routines are resulting in team bonding and success.

Memes Glorious Memes

Pg. 23 Photo by Ryan Barrett

Photo by Caleigh Quinn

Photo by Emma Moriarty

Photo by Ryan Barrett

Officer Jimmie Neal serves the students of BV West and the Overland Park community. His perspective on recent violence is eye-opening.

Pg.14 Pg.26 Photo courtesy Leah Zimmerli

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i.competition Rio, brazil The international Olympic for athletes with disabilities began on

September 7, continuing till September 18. The 2016 Paralympics in Rio have reached the secondlargest ticket sales in Paralympic history. The United States has won 87 medals, coming fourth behind China, Great Britain and Ukraine in events such as triathlon, archery, cycling and swimming.

Bey nd the Bubble

I II. columbia A violent earthquake shook

northern Peru on Saturday, striking near the San Martin Region’s capital Moyobamba. Registered with a magnitude of 6.0, the disaster was contained but felt deeply--located nearly 70 miles underground. Currently, there is no reported damage or injury.

Mikaela Schmitt & Sydney Schranz Managing Editor Contributor

Informing students about issues that take place beyond Johnson County’s borders

IV. South China The typhoon that hit Taiwan reached south China early Thursday

morning, September 15. Typhoon Merandi’s winds reached a maximum of 175 mph, despite slowing after Taiwan. The tropical storm knocked down trees, broke windows and destroyed an 800-year-old bridge in China, while causing mass power outages and 44 injuries in Taiwan.

iii. Syria With a five-year Syrian civil war devastating civilians and soldiers alike, US Secretary

of State John Kerry and Russian diplomat Sergey Lavrov have recently negotiated a ceasefire. Though the chances of a successful disarmament are unknown, both Russia and US attempt to remain optimistic in the name of the millions of Syrian lives disrupted by the war. This ceasefire, however, will not apply to terrorists taking refuge in Syria.

III IV

Humans of BV West

Lanie Render Contributor

Random Student Profile

Senior Brenda Situ overcomes challenges of new country

EW STUDENTS CAN IMAGINE COMING to a new school, let alone a new school in a new country, however, senior Brenda Situ did just that. She was born in the United States, but at three months old, moved to China. “I moved here [the United States] my sophomore year, I was born in America, I was just raised in China. I lived in China for 14-15 years,” Situ said. Situ attended an international school in China, however she moved back to the United States in search of better education. “I always planned on coming back because America has more opportunities” said Situ. “Coming here gave me more time to adapt to the culture, the environment and the school system.” She took advantage of the challenging courses here at West and pushed herself with a total of five Advanced Placement classes, one of those classes being AP Language and Composition, the infamously difficult, language based class. Even with English as her second language. she thrived under the rigorous work load. ““...growing up I was better at [speaking Chinese] than I was at English, I read books in Chinese and just talked more in Chinese,” she explains, “AP Lang is such a rigorous class and demands a very sophisticated level of writing and speaking. That was very challenging for me at the beginning, but, after a year of practice, I really learned a lot.” Accompainied by the academic challenge facing the new culture, Situ struggled to fit in with students, however she has assimilated into the culture of Johnson County and BVWest. “In the Blue Valley District, everyone has known each other for many years and as a transfer student, at first, I kind of felt overwhelmed,” she said, “Everyone

has their group, and the few first weeks can feel a little bit lonely.” Fortunately, that initial awkwardness and outsider mentality faded and Situ quickly found a group to call friends here at West “Everyone at West is very nice and friendly and I think slowly I made a lot of friends.” Although she found a comfortable fit at BVWest, she still notices significant differences in the setting of her school in China. “I went to an international school in China so I wouldn’t say it’s exactly the same but, it is quite similar,” she explains, “but I wouldn’t say I had a huge cultural shock when I came here, I think everything I pretty much expected.” The major difference, Situ comments, is this obvious language change. “Since most of the students were American born Chinese or people with Chinese heritage, we usually spoke in Chinese after class. So Chinese was probably still more dominant.” This dramatic change hasn’t effected Situ’s ability to enjoy her high school experience. Though, Situ has still experienced difficulties in deciphering American pop culture “I don’t think that anything was challenging social wise. But, if I’d have to pick one thing it would be the fact that I am not as familiar with American pop culture,” Brenda laughs, “so sometimes when my friends talk about funny memes and stuff, I might not get it right away.” After high school, Brenda plans to attend college and major in Biology. After that, law school is in her future. “I’m planning on going to college after high school. I’m currently stressing out about college apps.” Excited for senior year and her plans after high school, Situ has thrived under the work load of high school and anticipates a promising future. Photo by Ryan Barrett

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Going places

Jack Anstine, Sydney Schranz Contributors

The popular app Pokémon GO became a sensation over the summer

INCE THE BEGINNING OF SUMMER, a strange phenomenon has swept over Overland Park, Kansas, and the world. Kids of all ages have emerged from their homes to go outside and interact with their community. The cause? Pokémon GO. Released on July 6th, Pokémon GO is a mobile app that requires players to travel outdoors in order to capture Pokémon and be the very best like no one ever was. These Pokémon are then used to take over gyms and fight other players. The game’s unique format has caused it to become a success worldwide, and its popularity among students at BV West is unprecedented. The fan base of the game consists of many players that are both new and old to the franchise. Senior Kaitlyn Davitt is a long-time fan herself. “I grew up playing Pokémon and was excited to try it out,” Davitt said. Millions have been dreaming of the opportunity to become a Pokémon trainer since the very first game’s release. Pokémon GO makes that dream a reality. Playing on childhood aspirations and real-time competition, the game continues to be a success. Like any popular trend, Pokémon GO doesn’t appeal to everybody around West. “It looks pretty crazy,” senior Taiya Hickman said. “I was getting ice cream at night and people were crawling through the bushes playing Pokémon. It was weird.” There have been a number of incidents related to Pokémon GO that have made headlines, including robberies and car accidents. In response to the

criticism, Niantic, the creators of the app, continue to update it by adding several precautionary measures. For one, going above 20 miles per hour prompts a message asking not to play and drive. It also warns players not to trespass and to keep a watchful eye. Despite minor controversy over the game, its impact across the community cannot be denied. “It forces you to exercise, which is good because I have no motivation,” sophomore April Ma said. Video games in the past have often raised a stigma of laziness and bad behavior. Pokémon GO does not leave room for such criticism.

Not only does the app encourage players to exercise, but it also helps people create new relationships. “People are coming together because they’re interested in the same thing,” Ma said. “I’ve met several new friends while playing Pokémon GO.” The game’s success at bringing people together in the community together cannot be denied. Whether or not it will continue a to impact teens and other players is unknown. But the influence it had on the summer of 2016 is undeniable, and the ingenuity exemplified by Niantic will continue to innovate the world of videogames.

What is the most popular team at BV West? @bvwspotlight ran a Twitter poll on Aug. 22 and received 166 votes

INSTINCT

15%

43%

42%

MYSTIC

VALOR

TOp 5 PLACES TO play POKéMon GO

1) DOWNTOWN KANSAS CITY

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While admiring the city and catching dinner, don’t forget to check for rare Pokémon. With many Pokémon trainers roaming the streets, your chances of stealing a gym are higher than ever. Try leveling up your Pokémon before taking on a gym. Although the competition can be tough, it’s extremely rewarding to take down the opponent and claim the gym for your own team.

2) THE PLAZA

The art, culture, and shops that can be found at the Plaza makes it the number one spot for Pokémon GO. Make the trip down with a couple friends or join in on the fun with a random group; the possibilities are endless. If you’re lucky you may find a rare Pokémon on the Plaza streets, or if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Nelson Atkins Art Museum, where you may even find a Pikachu.

3) Corporate woods north park

This park, nestled between Antioch and College, is ripe with Pokéstops and a number of high-level Pokémon, including Magmars, Slow Bros, and more.

4) Deanna Rose

A center for both family outings and hopeful Trainers, this petting zoo has become a hotspot of activity for Pokémon GO. With gyms, Pokéstops, and valuable Pokémon such as Electabuzz, Jynx, and Ghastly, you’ll never get bored. But if you need a break, check out some of the animals and attractions that can be found at Deanna Rose!

5) Prairiefire

cfl national champions Senior Daniel Birzer triumphs in post-season debate John Byrket Contributor

EBATE IS NOT JUST ARGUING a topic and being on the affirmative or negative side. Debate can be more complicated and stressful than any sport. The art of debate takes concentration and many hours of preparation. A lot of people do not know exactly what goes on in the debate room. Lucky enough, BV West has a resident master at the art of debate. Senior Daniel Birzer has been with the debate team for four years and has accomplished goals that only the best debaters would dream of. Birzer won the CFL Championship during the summer of 2016. He and his partner, graduate Siaf Bajawa, were the top two debaters in the nation. Successful debaters were often amazing when they were freshman, but this was not the case for Birzer. “I got in as a freshman, my older brother Chris was in debate at West and he was pretty good at it, so that got me interested,” Birzer said.

Birzer started like all new debaters, novices and still remembers preparing for his first debate. “I remember being really nervous and on edge but it turned out okay.” Birzer said. After freshman year, Birzer started to get the feel for the activity. After preparing for debate tournaments many times, he got the hang of it. He thinks that around junior year he really started to feel like he fit into debate and knew how to do his best. “It took a lot of tedious work. At the beginning of my junior year I felt comfortable and I also felt like I was one of the better ones,” Birzer said. Just like any band or sports team there is always a coach. Coaches are the people that make the team come together and become better. Coaches, such as the debate coach Arianne Fortune, pushes them past the limits the students have set. “Coach Fortune has done a lot for us. She has always gone out of her way to prepare us for tournaments and to make sure we have rides and all the administration stuff that a debate coach needs to do,” said Birzer. An ultimate goal for debaters is national competition at one of the summer tournaments. The Catholic Forensic League National Tournament is one of the top tournament of the year and one of the most difficult. Winning CFL is historic and makes Birzer “the champion” among his teammates. “We basically had been preparing all year long. A lot of preparation will carry through tournaments so if we prepare for the first tournament of the year also a lot of that preparation will help us with the last tournament of the year,” said Birzer. After a tight contest, Birzer and Bajawa finally won. They knew they had a good shot, and felt confident during the tournament and finished with the “W.” “I was surprised and I was confident after the finals round that we had won but I was thrilled to see that we had won and that things had gone the way we wanted them to,” said Birzer. Birzer and Bajawa brought the CFL trophy home after competing against the some of the top 120 teams from across the nation. They are the second team from Kansas and the first team from the Blue Valley District to win this championship.

h t i w Fallin love Sports

Key Moments

Up Next

Mallory Huseman Maya Johnson Jack Loiser

Lone Elm, Turner Invite, JK Gold Classic

Sat., 9/24 Rim Rock 8 a.m.

Josh Koerkenmeier Adam Davis Wyatt Dorsh Andrew Thurman

Win over BV Southwest

Thurs., 9/22 Aquinas Home 6:30 p.m.

Aaron Anderson

Molly Saporito

BV Cup Champs

Thurs., 9/22 Heritage Park

Traci Rhodes

Reagan Sherron Brylin Staats

Blazer Invite Team Champs

Sat., 9/24 Emporia

Alex Aiman

Evan Carlisle Mikey Chalupa Kyler Hilton Andy Jones

2nd at Top Dawg Thurs., 9/22 Wins over BV, Mill Valley Miege, BVNW Away and Lee’s Summit

Jessica Kopp

Madison Lilley Peyton Uhlenhake

Win @ Maize and Tues., 9/27 Aquinas Lee’s Summit Away West tourneys Fox 4/Hy-Vee Team of the Week

Coach

Key Athletes

CROSS COUNTRY

FOOTBALL

GIRLS GOLF

GIRLS TENNIS

SOCCER

VOLLEYBALL

10 Sports Feature

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Causing a Racque Teachers Traci Rhodes and Ann Dark have unique experiences coaching tennis

O AN ATHLETE, THEIR students,” Rhodes said. “They COACH is someone they don’t take my class because it’s an look up to and idolize. No elective… they are forced to take matter what sport it is, they teach ELA, but seeing student athletes try their athletes many skills and life something new and different outside lessons. Traci Rhodes, English of the classroom allows me to see a teacher and 13th year head tennis different side of them.” coach for both boys and girls here at Rhodes’ athletes have definitely BV West, is equally devoted to her developed for the better through her team as she is devoted to teaching. coaching. Senior Reagan Sherron, “Coaching and asking players to one of two team captains of the girls’ do drills until they get it right follows tennis team, admires and respects me into the classroom,” Rhodes said. Coach Rhodes. “I teach so that my students learn “Coach Rhodes has become new material, allow them time to someone that I definitely look up to practice, and then ask them to show because she really loves the sport me ‘mastery’ on the big game day. I and West and the team in general,” have high expectations for students Sherron said. “[She] works hard to and athletes no matter if I am on the make every season better than the court or in the classroom.” last. “ Rhodes is not a Kansas City native, despite her undeniable spirit Photo by Bradley Mittleman for the school. When she moved to Kansas City 13 years ago, she brought experience as a tennis coach, along with her positive attitude and spirit. “When I first moved here I was excited to see a tennis opening and I jumped at the chance to coach here in KC,” Rhodes said. “But what I didn’t know at the time was that West was such an amazing place. I love the atmosphere from inside the building, all the way to the support outside to the courts.” In coaching, Coach Rhodes has been able to develop unique relationships with her studentathletes, seeing a side of them that usually is not exposed in the classroom “Coaching allows me to have a different type of relationship with

Jonah Park Contributor Despite the stress from coaching in conjunction with teaching and grading assignments, Rhodes loves what she does. “Our student athletes are amazing and so are their families,” Rhodes said. “I wouldn’t trade this place for anywhere.” Hopes are high for the team on the upcoming season, especially for team captains Reagan Sherron and senior Brylin Staats. “Our goals for the season are to just have fun and grow as a team and improve the program,” Sherron said. “We hope to get as many people to qualify for the state tournament as possible and just work on personal goals.”

more stories at BVWNews.com

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Teacher Ann Dark, business and computer sciences, connection back to the community and to the youth also enjoys a rewarding career as a tennis coach. Despite tennis in the area. Spending time with kids, getting them her day job at BV West, she coaches at North. Her most excited about tennis, answering their questions.” successful athlete is Jack Sock, who won a gold medal in Arguably the most important thing between a coach mixed-doubles at the Rio Olympics on August 14th. and athlete is their relationship. “I would say we have Mrs. Dark was Sock’s coach for his sophomore a good relationship. I try not to bug him and say, ‘Good through senior years in high school and was able to form luck in your match’ or ‘Congratulations,’ because I know a strong relationship with him. “I knew before I even there are plenty of people who do that but we are really met him. He as a freshman happy when we do get did not lose a match. He was to see each other,” Dark For him to win bronze, I was a name I’d been hearing. He said. “[We have] a mutual was on a whole other level respect and admiration for thrilled with that, then he got than any other high school each other.” gold. I’m really proud of him.” player I’d ever seen.” After things settle down Teacher Ann Dark Sock was unstoppable, and from the Olympics, Dark he started traveling around hopes to get a chance to the country frequently during high school to compete. see Sock and catch up with him. “You might think ‘Oh, this tennis player’s really good “I’m hoping in November we can go out for some too’, then Jack can turn it up to a whole new level and Chipotle - that’s his favorite and I don’t mind it either,” make them [other players] look like they just started Dark said. playing tennis. He was heads and shoulders above the Most people would think only the coach makes an competition.” impact on their athletes’ life, but the athlete can make In August, Sock won both a bronze and a gold medal. just as big of an impact on their coach. Whether it’s the “It was… awesome,” Dark said. life skills that are learned, the memories that are made, Dark followed Sock’s progress as soon as she heard or the Chipotle that is shared. he was going to represent the USA in the Olympics. She watched him compete on television and streamed some of his matches online. “Just knowing that ‘Hey, I know him,’ and having that personal connection. You always want the best for your players,” Dark said. “For him to win bronze, I was thrilled with that, then he got gold. I’m really proud of him.” Throughout her years as his coach, Dark saw him develop, both on and off the court. “It’s been really fun to follow his progress. He’s had to grow up in the public eye. As a celebrity really. Countless interviews, public speaking, and all those things,” Dark said. Sock’s tennis abilities were so unbelievable that there wasn’t much more he could learn and improve on. Dark even admits that she probably did not teach him anything new about the sport, but she believes she has taught him other things. “He came to me at a level where there wasn’t much more I could coach him on because he really didn’t need my help, but I like to think that I may have helped him become a complete person. Holding him to a higher academic standard, sportsmanship, being that wellrounded athlete and person,” Dark said. “I think that I’ve contributed partially to that.” Even though Jack Sock has achieved the things he has in the sport of tennis, Dark is more proud of the things he does as a person. Ann Dark and Jack Sock “The thing I’m probably most proud of is his

“

catch up after the Olympics

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Pets of BV West

The exotic pets in West’s backyard Kaylee Alexander and Kristina Cripe Contributors

UNIOR HENRY BROUSSARD ACQUIRED HIS bizarre pets eight years ago when he moved into his current house. Broussard houses a family of peacocks in his backyard. The parent peacocks had their child about two years after Broussard started caring for them. The mom, dad, and son are fed chicken seed in their caged enclosure. Outside of their peacock compound, the Broussard’s have some other exotic animals. They have 10 cows or “lawn ornaments” as Broussard’s father calls them. The cows are longhorns, raised for meat or rodeo. While Broussard says he enjoys all of them, there is a mother cow named Sweet Pea that he is especially fond of. Sweet Pea has a unique cropped tail that makes her that much more endearing. This family’s farm is completed by their family dog that loves to visit his other animal friends.

Photos

by Rya

n Barre

ORGAN SCHEERER IS THE PROUD OWNER of an interesting marsupial. Kiki, a four year old sugar glider, lives in her family room. Scheerer got her nocturnal pet at the mall, where she fell in love with Kiki’s big eyes, fluffy grey fur, and bushy tail. Kiki is considered an independent woman but occasionally enjoys jumping into her owner’s pockets. The Scheerer family likes to let Kiki roam around when she’s awake in the hours of nine at night to nine the next morning. They usually find her cuddled up to her heated rock as sugar gliders are indigenous to Australia where they are accustomed to a warmer climate. Kiki eats a special food with gravy every night but really enjoys her treats which include cheez-its and animal crackers. She is known to cry at night until she gets her favorite crackers.

Phot

eerer

n Sch

rga y Mo

UNIOR AJ LIETZ IS THE PROUD owner of chickens,

and he keeps them in his backyard! Lietz has kept them for 18 months now. Originally, the reason behind purchasing the hens was to supply eggs for their family of six kids. The Lietz family started out with eleven chickens, but due to coyotes and foxes they are now down to five. The animals started off as AJ’s fathers, but they became Lietz’s responsibility and he takes care of them daily by making sure they’re fed and happy. They own many different kinds of chickens including Rhode Island Red’s who lay green, red, and even blue eggs.

Photo c Eggsp ourtesy of Chick ert en

OPHOMORE ABBY NIELSEN IS THE owner of two

unique and dangerous animals. Currently living in her father’s office are two snakes. Nielsen received the two different species of snakes a fe;mily would remove the animals from their cage and transfer them into a separate box for feeding. This way it would not associate their hands with food and they would be able to handle the animal more. The Nielsens stopped using this method so they no longer handle the snakes as they have reverted to a more wild state. They are still an interesting addition to their family and are an exotic pet to own.

Photos c our and Field tesy of Southlan d Sun Help For um

HILE CRAYFISH ARE SEEN BY many as a traditional southern dish, Junior Megan Neil,

keeps one of these tiny lobsters as a pet named Blufasa. The crayfish got his name because of his unique bright blue color caused by a mutation in his DNA. He became a part of the family five years ago when Neil came across him at Petland. Blufasa lives in a 29 gallon tank with all of his freshwater fish friends. This crayfish has a diet of shrimp pellets that Neil feeds him on a daily basis. This species eats differently than most other animals, Blufasa’s esophagus is located near his abdomen making it appear as if he was eating with his stomach. Another interesting fact about this pet is that it is a survivor of a water heater explosion! Phot

o by

Meg

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Mikaela Schmitt & Rachel Pickett Managing Editor

“I

Officer Jimmie Neal reveals his unique perspective on recent violence

Contributor

ALWAYS PLAY THE ‘WHAT IF’ game,” Officer Jimmie Neal said. “What if right now someone comes in here and starts shooting at me; what am I going to do?” 426 people have been killed and 1243 people have been wounded in 2016 alone due to mass shootings (defined as four or more people being injured or killed due to gun violence). The deadliest shooting in U.S. History occurred recently in June, killing 49 in the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida. The increasing amount of gun violence and violence against police officers has caused Student Resources Officer Jimmie Neal to consider his surroundings as he works. He believes change starts simply with education– teaching others how to respond in situations, especially when guns or police officers are involved. “It’s my job to get in the classrooms and not only talk about the normal–drugs are bad, alcohol is bad–but also, this is how you need to respond when an officer asks you to do something, and this is why that officer is asking you to do that so you have a better understanding of it,” Neal said. “I think that is probably the number one thing that we [the police] need to start with is educating the public on what it is that we need to do.” Neal considers the root of many tough situations involving the police to be the lack of education. Officers and citizens in situations in which violence breaks out often have a certain level of miscommunication. If the motives of both parties are understood more clearly, attacks and mass shootings may be reduced in the future. The public is also quick to judge police actions with limited knowledge of the situation. Media shares sections of the videos, and the public does not often consider what happened before the video started and what drove the situation to its climax.

“I think that in today’s society we are very quick to pick up our phones or hit audio; everybody has the capability of pulling up their phones and capturing something that was serious,” Neal said. “Unfortunately, we see whatever was captured and we base our decision on how that situation happened. I think and I hope that people will step back and educate themselves on what happened in that particular situation.” According to Neal, the media often aggravates the problem, sharing information before all of it is known. Despite this, he is not excusing the actions of officers or citizens. “I think there are probably some not good officers, but there are also not good teachers, there are also not good doctors.” Neal said. “Unfortunately, we have a very small percentage of officers that one could question why you are doing what you’re doing. And so therefore every officer is looked at like that.”

“

think that in today’s society we are very quick to pick up our phones or hit audio; everybody has the capability of pulling up their phones and capturing something that was serious.” -Officer Neal

While there is a lot of speculation due to the recent videos of race related shootings, Officer Neal does not believe that these shootings reflect the majority of police officers’ views about race. “I don’t believe that there are white police officers going around shooting black people,” Neal said. “I don’t believe that. I think that there is a situation, for whatever reasons whether it was right or wrong. There may be some instances as a police officer I may question why did that officer immediately go into that level

of force. But I believe that people have to step back and evaluate and educate themselves on what happened; why did that officer take the measures that he did?”

“ O

I think there are probably some not good officers, but there are also not good teachers, there are also not good doctors.” -Officer Neal

n July 7, a citizen shot upon and killed five Dallas police officers, wounding nine others. Neal was working the night of the incident, like his best friend, Edward King, who is a detective for the Dallas Police Department. Neal was unaware if his friend was at the scene of the shooting and remained concerned for most of the night. With close connections to victims at the mass shooting, Neal began to reconsider some of his daily actions. “I think this situation has probably affected me more when I’m not in my uniform,” Neal said. “When I was not in my uniform previous to the Dallas situation, I would wear my uniform home and when I was in normal clothes I would not wear my gun or have my gun on me. I think that the Dallas situation has changed that for me. I do not wear my uniform home at all [because] anybody else may just drive by and see that a police officer lives there and that is his personal car. I just won’t wear my uniform home and I’ll probably have my gun with me a lot more than I ever had before. Just because a lot of people know that I’m a police officer and it’s just one of those deals now that maybe I need to carry it on me a lot more than I did before.” Neal has also found that he is hyper-aware and observant of his surroundings as a result of the shootings. He is constantly

evaluating what he would do if a shooting would occur. He strives to protect the public to the best of his ability, on and off the job. Educating the public on the situation, Neal believes, may be able to prevent more conflicts from occurring in the future. Informing the public of their surroundings and discussing what one should do if a shooting occurs or if a police officer pulls you over would ideally limit the damage or violence that may occur. Education is the key for everyone, no matter the location. “It happens in Dallas, then what happens if you have people who may feel the same way here in Overland Park that this particular person in Dallas felt,” Neal said. “So who is not to say that while this Dallas situation is going on that something in Overland Park is not going to happen. I was working that night when it happened. I think it’s just good to talk about what’s going on in the world. You know we, in Overland Park, are pretty lucky because we do not have some of the issues that other places have, but that doesn’t mean that it wouldn’t happen here.” After the Dallas protests and subsequent shooting, there was word that protests might begin in Overland Park. While Overland Park did not have any protests that night, Neal believes that the area is not immune from future issues involving policing, despite the typical standard of safety. If the Overland Park public does not understand this, they may respond ignorantly and a conflict could arise here.

“

If you have a question about something that is going on, ask it.” -Officer Neal

Neal thinks that lack of education can be dangerous for both the public and the officers involved. When people are uneducated it

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can lead to a string of problems and misunderstandings that are sometimes impossible to reverse. “I always just go back to educating the public,” Neal said. “I think that is very important. The reason why I think that is very important is because if you don’t understand what I do, then you’re automatically a target. If you feel like you’re a target, then you feel like you have to defend yourself, if you feel like you have to defend yourself then the way which you speak and the way which you act is going to come off defensive. So if you’re coming off defensive, you don’t understand why I’m doing what I’m doing; why I’m asking you to do what I’m asking you to do. Then you’re going to be defensive, I’m going to take you defensiveness as you’re about to attack me and then we just have this cycle over and over again.” While Neal understands that it is difficult for the public to understand policing, he also says that it is hard for police officers to know what people are going to do and the motives for their actions. “I don’t know that you don’t have a weapon on you or that you don’t have any intent to harm me,” Neal said. “I don’t know that. If you understand that I didn’t know that then you are more apt to be like ‘I don’t have anything’, then we can move forward.” While Neal feels that it is important for the public to understand the officer’s point of view, he also feels that the conversation about policing should be more of an open dialogue than a lecture. Communication is the root of the problems, and ideally also the solution. “Just kind of having a dialogue about you know how you feel when an officer asks you this, [for the officer to] understand the public’s perspective on things,” Neal said. “I

Feature think it’s good for us to understand where they’re coming from as well, not just ‘Hey I want you guys to understand where I’m coming from’. Having a good dialogue of this is where I’m coming from and this is why we’re asking you to do the things that we are asking you to do. Then hopefully we are able to come up to some solution on how we can go about our interactions.” Neal believes that the key to police and citizens having better interactions is to ask questions when they arise. “If you have a question about something that is going on, ask it. If you don’t ask, then you don’t know, if you don’t know then you don’t know how to respond, if you don’t know how to respond then a situation that didn’t have to be a situation turns into a bigger situation,” Neal said.

Officer Neal stands in his office which he works in everyday to keep the students and staff of BV West safe. Photo by Ryan Barrett

A m e r i c a n V i o l e n c e Jesse Hoffman Contributor

A timeline of shootings in 2016 February 21 Kalamazoo, MI (6/2)

March 9 Wilkinsburg, PA (5/3)

*(Killed/Wounded) Jason Brian Dalton, 45, the one responsible for the acts of violence in Kalamazoo, Michigan, was an Uber driver who was on a 7 hour killing spree, while taking fares. The motives for the murders are unknown, one source states that Dalton claimed the Uber app took control of his body and forced him to commit these acts of violence.

What started as a peaceful Black Lives Matter protest ended in the deadliest event for law enforcement since 9/11. Five officers were killed in the act and 14 were injured, 2 of them being civilians. One suspect was found dead with a selfinflicted gunshot wound and the other was taken into custody after a standoff with the police.

April 22 Piketon, OH (8/0) June 12 Orlando. FL (50/53)

Pulse, one of the biggest gay bars in America, is also home to the deadliest mass shooting of 2016. The killer, Omar Mateen, entered the club at 2 A.M. when he started the shooting. killing 50, and injuring 53 others. After a 3 hour standoff, Orlando police crashed an armored vehicle into the club and shot and killed Mateen.

July 7 Dallas, TX (5/14)

With 6 counts of capitol murder, and two counts of kidnapping, Dearman shot all 5 victims and hit them with an ax. Chelsea Reed (one of the victims) was 5 months pregnant at the time, bringing the death toll to 6. He spared and kidnapped Laneta Lester and a toddler, fleeing to his father’s house in Mississippi, where he was conviced to turn himself in.

July 25 Fort Myers, FL (2/18)

July 30 Mukilteo, WA (3/1)

August 20 Citronelle, AL (5-6/0)

August 18 Kansas City, MO (1/3)

August 6 Sinking Spring, PA (5/0)

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Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories Repertory theater depicts themes of depression and overcoming loss

Hannah Holladay Contributor

RIEF. DESPAIR. HOPELESSNESS. HARDSHIP. So many people have been there, and know how difficult it can be to overcome the adversity life throws at them. Healing is challenging, but if there is one lesson to be learned, it is that a new reality is possible. Difficulty is inevitable in day to day life, but many often don’t realize the toll that monumental, life-changing loss can take on others. The theater department seeks to reveal the truths behind how ordinary people learn to cope with extraordinary hardships in their fall repertory show, Ordinary People. The play centers around a depressed teenager, Conrad, and his recovery from a failed suicide attempt following his brother’s accidental death. The dramatic show will take place Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. Yet, it is a show that has been a long time in the making. “I’ve wanted to do this play for about ten years,” theater director Laurie VanderPol said. I’ve kind of been looking for the right time, the right cast. I read the book too and I’ve just never forgotten it. It was a beautiful piece.” The theater department is known for their dramatic, resonating, enjoyable shows, and Ordinary People looks to be no exception, bringing to light some very significant topics. As Conrad deals with survivor’s guilt after witnessing his brother’s death firsthand in a boating accident, various scenarios unfold with his family, friends, and other characters that are fascinating to watch. Junior Alex Leondedis, who plays Dr. Berger, the psychiatrist who helps Conrad overcome some of his struggles, understands the importance of communicating these topics. “When a show gets emotional like this, it can either be

done really well or really poorly, and I think with the cast that we have, we’re looking towards really well executed emotional scenes,” Leondedis said. With a talented cast taking on mature, profound roles, there is no doubt that the audience will be filled with emotion. Each student involved in the show seeks to make their passion for theater evident in every performance, and they work tirelessly to create the best shows possible. Rehearsals throughout the school week and the dedication of every cast member is clearly seen when the actors and actresses take to the stage, seamlessly illuminating the many themes a show like Ordinary People deals with. “We’ve all had those times where we feel like it’s the end of the world and we’re at rock bottom,” senior Zane Champie, who plays severely depressed Conrad, said. “We’ve all had to seek out someone to get help or have had to find our own journey to recovery from hardships, whatever the degree of severity is.”

Artwork by Annie Diemer

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one of the standout ideas illustrated in the show. The journey towards recovery is undoubtedly rocky for each character, but the strategies they develop to cope depict the reality of how real people react to and deal with losses as well. “It’s just is so interesting to look at the things that people do that reject or turn other people away from you,” VanderPol said. “You’re not going to get help if you don’t open up and let yourself be a little vulnerable. So, that’s the bad part of healing, and that’s kind of what we’re seeing in the show is the trauma of just trying to feel all those feelings.”

As the storyline progresses and some of these more severe conflicts aside from Conrad’s suicide attempt begin to surface, the difficulty and relevance with which his decision affects everyone around him is exemplified. Although his recovery is pivotal, seeing how much of an impact it has on his family and friends is truly eyeopening. “We learn about the warning signs of suicide and we learn what to do before it happens, but I don’t think people know how to deal with it after someone’s tried to commit suicide and recovered,” senior Haley Bates said. Bates’s character, Conrad’s detached and narcissistic mother, struggles profoundly to deal with this recovery and make sense of the tragedy. Her healing process, and many others illustrated throughout the play, speak volumes to the idea that there is no one way to grieve, and that individual coping mechanisms are prominent in each character. “Berger and Conrad have this really interesting relationship where Dr. Berger, Conrad’s therapist, insights chaos so that Conrad can eventually get more control,” Leondedis said of the dynamic between two of the characters in the show. “I think that is almost what is most beneficial to Conrad’s health and what helps him get better in the long run.” When individuals open themselves up to alternative solutions, the possibility of receiving life-changing help increases immensely. Many times, it seems easier to pretend that hardships are nonexistent, but this proves a detrimental tactic for many characters. “They [Conrad’s family] have to remember the loss of their son, even though a lot of the characters are trying to get rid of it and move on like things never happened,” senior Charlie Meacham said. Each actor recognizes the unhealthiness of the coping mechanisms that different characters use and the need to turn towards healthier habits. “At the beginning he’s [Conrad] trying to sweep it under the rug, but eventually he learns to seek out help and ways to really heal,” Champie said. The progression of each individual towards healing is

Conrad Jarrett Cal Jarret Beth Jarrett Joe Lazenby Stillman Jeannine Pratt Karen Aldrich Doctor Berger Salan

Meet the Cast Zane Champie Charlie Meacham Haley Bates Michael Zipse Tommy Klaus Sierra Stahley Emily Sulentic Alex Leondedis Cavan Hendricks

This concept, intricately woven into the play, holds much more meaning than simply that of actors taking on a different persona for a show with the sole intention to entertain. Its relevance to students is monumental. Depression and suicide are two very real issues that many students struggle with and are topics that often do not get the attention needed. The Ordinary People cast holds these issues close to their hearts, and knows that the messages in their play are messages students yearn to hear. The clear need for support and care from loved ones is evident throughout the show. “We like to call ourselves a big family in theater and I just can’t wait to keep working with these guys,” Meacham said. Meacham, who plays Conrad’s cautiously optimistic Photos by Mikaela Schmitt

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father, acknowledges the friendships he has developed in the theatre department. It is friendships like these that are often crucial to overcoming the struggles life brings and working through the pain towards a better outcome. “Even though you might feel down at times, you have friends and family that care for you,” Meacham said. “They’re going to do whatever they can to help you get better. I just want the audience to know that they have so many people in their lives to go to if they ever feel down or anything.” Vanderpol stresses the need to be connected and rely on those friendships when life gets difficult as well. “The redeeming, helpful qualities, the support of friends, are so important,” VanderPol said. “You can’t

get through these tough things without friends.” Truly, the title of the play, Ordinary People, is fitting. Although the battles each character faces on stage are extraordinary, their stories hold an incredible sense of normalcy. Life is difficult, and finding support and hope in the midst of devastation is a monumental challenge. However, as Ordinary People illustrates, recovery is achievable. “The only way through it is through it,” VanderPol said. “The only way through the pain- you can’t go around it, you can’t go under it, you can’t go over it. The only way through it is through it. And once you’re through it, there’s hope on the other side. There’s hope in healing.”

Real Life Resources

EPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION month. In Kansas, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Suicide is a real issue among teens everywhere, and the steps to prevention are knowledge that every student should be aware of. Students that are struggling are often unaware of the resources and the different types of support that are accessible to them both inside and outside of school. “We have a list of different therapists and we’ve made relationships with them, so we can always recommend, or if someone is looking for somebody specific, we can give them feedback on who to see,” school counselor Kimberly Urenda said. School counselors and trusted adults can provide crucial tools as well as different opportunities for students to receive individualized help. The district has established distinct protocols for suicide prevention, and is connected to various sources that may be beneficial to students. Recovery is achievable if one seeks help and finds healthy ways to deal with their struggles. “We’re all unique humans and we all have different ways of dealing with things,” Urenda said. “Some are more healthy than others. The healthier coping mechanisms are talking to others and somehow processing it verbally and getting it out of your system.” Talking to others and reaching out for help can be difficult, but there are countless people available to talk to students in need. Sharing information with counselors, therapists, friends, family, teachers, or any other trusted adult can make all the difference. “When people don’t want to talk about things that have impacted their life or have been traumatic, that’s where people start trying to hide their emotions, cover them up, or numb out,” Urenda said. Students that may have a friend who has come to them regarding a struggle with depression or

potentially dangerous issue they’ve been dealing with are encouraged to speak out. “Don’t take that on yourself,” Urenda said. “That is such a big secret, and it’s not a good secret to keep. Being a good friend and listening to them is very helpful, but also telling a trusted adult or going with them to tell someone is very beneficial as well.” Above all, it’s important to recognize that no student is alone. There are numerous resources available to any individual in need, and reaching out to adults is a necessary step towards a lasting recovery. “The big thing is asking for help,” Urenda said. “It’s okay to ask for help because we all need help at times. It’s not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength.”

Know the Warning Signs

-sudden changes in behavior -avoiding friends, activities -feelings of sadness, guilt, worthlessness -poor concentration, can’t make decisions -changes in eating or sleeping habits -increased risk taking (drugs/alcohol, reckless driving, sexual behavior) -sudden “happiness” following a period of depression -lack of interest in future plans -making final arrangements -suicide threats or talks of death

Helpful Resources

-National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-2738255 -Student Wellbeing: www.bluevalleyk12.org/ studentwellbeing -Youth Suicide Information: www.jasonfoundation. com -Johnson County Mental Health Resources: www. jocogov.org/suicideprevention -BV West Counselor Offices: rooms 315 and 359

In Memoriam

IN MEMORy OF LANE MARRS

HIS PAST WEEKEND, FRIENDS AND FAMILY of 2016 alumna Lane Marrs learned of her passing. Lane was an active member of the cross country team her senior year. She was a student at the University of Arkansas and had just pledged Alpha Omicron Pi. “Lane had a lot of friends [at West] and I want them to know that there was nothing they could have done,” said Jan Marrs, Lane’s mother. “Lane’s biggest problem wasn’t her depression or her anxiety, it was that she wouldn’t talk to anyone who could help.” Principal Dr. Brett Potts sent an email to the BV West community on Sunday. “Lane was very special to our school and she will be dearly missed,” Potts said. “We are a strong community and at a time like this we must work together to provide guidance and support for our students.” Further information about services for Lane will be published on the Spotlight Twitter when it is available.

For coping resources, scan this QR code.

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note

he Spotlight staff dedicate our first issue of the year to those who cross the line, who stand out in a crowd. These people break down boundaries and open our eyes to the possibilities and realities that surround us in this world. With this issue, we hope to establish a precedent for all of the Spotlights to come this year. We want to make you laugh, roll your eyes, and scoff at us. At the same time, we want to inform you; we want you to learn about our community, from seemingly insignificant snakes to hot button issues that hit close to home. Our school is a diverse and vibrant family, with stories around every corner and in the heart of every student. We want to share those stories with you. Ultimately, our time here at BV West - and on this planet- is short, so it is important to document this time of our lives, because each and every day stands out in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own way. Until next issue, Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief

Spotlight is printed at least six times per school year for the BV West students and community. Its goals are to inform, entertain and interpret through editorials and bylined articles while providing an open forum of communication for the diverst student population and faculty members. Spotlight aims to be fair, accurate and impartial. The content of the print publication, online news site and social media accounts is determined by its student editors as determined by the Kansas Scholastic Press Act and may contain controversial subject matter as the staff exercises their First Amendment Rights. Spotlight does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty adviser, the administration of BV West or USD 229.

Spotlight Staff Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief Shaye Herman and Mikaela Schmitt Managing Editors Ryan Barrett Photo Editor Kaylee Alexander, Jack Anstine, John Byrket, Kristina Cripe, Jaden Dudrey, Liz Hernandez, Jesse Hoffman, Hannah Holladay, Stephen Kinder, Jonah Park, Rachel Picket, Lanie Render, Sydney Schranz, Nick Sisler, Rachel Zimmerli Contributors

DABMINISTRATION

Dr. Hall

Ms. VanderPol

Mrs. Roach

Mr. Baxter

Mrs. LeGrotte

Mrs. Tritt

Dr. Potts

Mr. Ortolani

Mr. MacDonnell

Ms. Waldorf Jr.

Mrs. Waldorf Sr.

24 Memes

@bvwspotlight

Stephen Kinder Contributor

Thanks for the meme-ories A guide to tasteless humor that trended over the summer of 2016

ET US NOT KID OURSELVES-- it has been an extremely odd summer. Many highlights have differed during this summer; such as memes being used in this election, and people spamming pictures of a fallen gorilla for cheap laughs. Unfortunatly, memes have integrated into everyday life more than it

Harambe: For those who have not caught themselves up on their meme-base, some may not understand why a dead gorilla from the spring of 2016 suddenly came back from the grave to haunt the Internet. Harambe rose up the meme-charts when many people added the fallen gorilla among other dead celebrities. It was all fun and games until someone hacked the Cincinnati’s Zoo’s Twitter account, which led to people tagging Harambe memes. Since then, the meme has gone into hiding—as the zoo requested that people stop making memes out of their dead gorilla.

Dat Boi: Step aside, Pepe—there is a new frog in town. Upon a unicycle, Dat Boi wheeled out of the shadows when someone went on a spamming spree on Tumblr. With various catchphrases, ironic meme-posters saw this as their chance to derail various websites by spamming their retribution on the internet. Along with the original Tumblr post of this amphibious fiend, Dat Boi originated from a Physics textbook in 2013—memes are in our education system!

ever has, all in one summer. One can say that memes and politics mix, because candidates have started making and using memes to attract more votes. Of course this is probably the most classless thing a person in power can do, but who could resist such a bandwagon?

Arthur’s Fist: Only “90s” kids will remember the beloved TV show, “Arthur” nostalgia will flow through their veins when viewing this. Arthur’s Fist commenced from the infamous episode “Arthur’s Big Hit,” where our valiant hero, Arthur punches his sister for breaking his toy plane. Many years later, a Twitter user made history by telling everyone that there are “So many emotions in one fist.” His post gained notoriety, and other twitter users now convey their emotions and inner animal through Arthur’s Fist. From relatable humor about everyday inconveniences, to criticism of political ideologies, Arthur has become a prevalent part of the Twitter community. SpongeGar: Scary and awkward events have now become relatable with a familiar face that almost everyone recognizes—SpongeBob Squarepants. SpongeBob has become relevant once again when a Reddit user posted a reaction image of SpongeBob from the episode “SB-129.” Like other popular memes, it just stuck and users continued to post original versions of the reaction with different walls of texts that make people relate to the reaction macro. Twitter proceeded to get SpongeGar in its grasp, which earned this spicy meme its status on the internet.

The 2016 Presidential Race: All eyes are on it, and everyone is tired of hearing about it. In all honesty, politics have been more or less humorous because the internet has played a vital role in discrediting a political opposition not with facts and rebuttals, but with image macros and fallacies. Over the summer candidates have tried too hard to pander to the internet’s meme fan base, which inevitably lead to more layers of irony, satire, and pure malice over the internet. It has been found that each political party uses their own memes to their advantage, as they desperately attempt to pander to a crowd for votes. The Left tends to stick to twitter with relatable humor and current trends, while The Right uses more underground, spiteful and clever memes. Right in the middle, presidential candidate Gary Johnson has spent $30,000 on various memes for future use in his campaign.